Athletics vs Angels Preview: Big Pitches, Small Gaps

The Athletics showed serious punch in their last series against the Angels. They scored 12 runs in one game and 7 in another, proving their lineup can explode fast. But here's the problem: star slugger Brent Rooker sits on the injured list with a knee injury. Jacob Wilson, their shortstop, also just got hurt at home plate. Without those key bats, Oakland needs other players to step up and keep the scoring going. The team is 39-42 but just won their last game. Can they stay hot without their full roster?

Los Angeles just won two straight games against Oakland. They dominated one game 7-0 and squeaked out a 9-7 victory in another. The Angels showed they can hit for power, with home runs from Walton, Guzman, Neto, and others lighting up the scoreboard. They're also getting contributions from Jose Siri, who's batting nearly 300 with speed and pop. But the Angels are 34-48 overall, struggling this season. They'll need to keep their momentum rolling Saturday to stay competitive.

J.T. Ginn takes the ball for Oakland, while Walbert Urena starts for Los Angeles. Neither team has dominant pitching at the top of their rotation. The Athletics' staff has dealt with major injuries—Luis Severino is out with a shoulder problem. The Angels face their own pitching crisis, missing Yusei Kikuchi and dealing with Grayson Rodriguez's back issues. Both teams will lean on their bullpens and hope their starter goes deep into the game. This matchup could come down to which relief crew performs better.